Sanding sealer confusion

[wizer]

That's the same combination I started with. I loved it at first and, as you say, great for the ego. But I've gone off it and, as yet, not found a suitable alternative. I think I'm going to explore lacquer. Some oil varnish blends are nice, on some woods.

 

[CHJ]

That's the same combination I started with. I loved it at first and, as you say, great for the ego. But I've gone off it and, as yet, not found a suitable alternative. I think I'm going to explore lacquer. Some oil varnish blends are nice, on some woods.

My only change for 'regular' turnings is to move to Hard Wax (carnauba) now that I have a decent buffing system.
I have taken to applying a final coat of microcrystalline to top off the carnauba on regularly handled items.

If looking for a hard waring water resistant finish I use melamine enhanced finish, good for fruit bowls where there is a risk of soft fruit weeps.

As you say Tom, some items just seem to ask for Oil, be it finishing, plain or Lemon scented.

 

[OldWood]

Chas
Going OT a bit - Will the melamine finish keep wine at bay ?

I have a design I would like to do for two wine coasters - one in a white wood and one in a dark wood, but the red wine will inevitably end up in the wrong one and in all likelihood stain it.

Rob

 

[CHJ]

Melamine reinforced finishwould be my choice, several coats. I would be tempted to apply a coat of microcrystalline wax from time to time to help shed any spillage if the wood moves and developes minor fissures.

I believe Pete even uses melamine on goblets, not guarantied a perfect answer for that but it helps considerably.

I'm loath to use two part or epoxy finishes as they look a little artificial to my eyes.

 

[wizer]

Is it easy to apply Chas?

 

[PeterBassett]

Do you water down your beer with 30% water ?

Use it as it comes out of the container , its fine :lol:

See it done with whisky...

 

[CHJ]

Is it easy to apply Chas?

On small items Tom, yes; on larger areas it needs some practice.
It skins rather quickly so you can't go back over or blend easily, I struggled at first.

Once again you move into the dreaded 'do I thin' debate, practice and personal methods sort that out after a while.

If all else fails the spray can version is easier to get an even blemish free finish, as long as you can master the usual mist bloom or run problems that go with pressure can spraying judgement.

It takes burnishing well with cream, I prefer to let it cure at least 24 hrs if I need to buff any blemishes out to avoid risk of stripping it.

I would say on something the size of coasters a quick wipe and spread is fine, don't be tempted to go back over it whilst wet. On a 250-300mm bowl you may struggle first time round for hand application.

 

[Bodrighy]

I use melamine for the inside of goblets that are made for use. I put about 4 coats on with a cloth, leave to dry between each and if necessary cut back as well. It is sticky and part dries very quickly. As Chas said it isn't a complete answer especially for red wine which I always advise will stain no matter what the finish. It's ideal IMHO for fruit bowls etc and can be applied on the lathe, stationary, then cut back. Do it with the lathe running and you are almost guaranteed to get ridges in it.

Pete